Many people wonder about the scale of illegal or undeclared work in the UK. Recent reports suggest that millions of adults are working off the books, often in low-paid, informal jobs. But why do so many choose or feel forced to work this way? In this page, we explore the extent of the UK's hidden economy, the types of jobs involved, and what the government is doing about it.
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How many UK adults are working illegally?
Recent estimates indicate that around 4.4 million UK workers, about 8.8% of adults, are working off the books. These jobs are mostly low-paid and informal, often driven by economic hardship and the need to make ends meet. The issue is widespread across regions and age groups, not just linked to migrant workers.
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What types of jobs are most common in the hidden economy?
Jobs in the UK’s hidden economy typically include roles in construction, cleaning, hospitality, and manual labor. These are often low-paid, flexible roles where workers may avoid official registration to evade taxes or regulations, often due to financial necessity.
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Why do people choose to work off the books?
Many workers turn to undeclared work because of economic hardship, high living costs, or difficulty finding formal employment. Some also prefer the flexibility or avoid taxes and regulations, especially when official jobs are scarce or poorly paid.
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What is the government doing to tackle this issue?
The UK government claims to be addressing the hidden economy through border security, enforcement, and crackdowns on illegal employment. However, research suggests that efforts are inconsistent, and economic pressures continue to drive many into informal work despite these measures.
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Is the hidden economy mainly made up of migrant workers?
Contrary to some political narratives, recent research shows that most undeclared work involves native UK residents, not just migrant workers. Economic hardship and customer demand are the primary drivers, regardless of migrant status.
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How does working off the books affect the economy?
Working off the books reduces tax revenue and can undermine fair competition among businesses. It also leaves workers without legal protections or benefits, increasing their vulnerability and perpetuating economic inequality.